Kufundisha · CC BY-SA 4.0
About
The genus *Sansevieria* (now included in *Dracaena*) contains numerous species, many of which are popular houseplants known for their architectural, stiff, and erect leaves. They are valued for their ability to purify air and their slow, long-lasting growth habit.
Field notes
Morphology
The leaves are typically arranged in a rosette, though some species are distichous. They vary greatly in form, ranging from thick, succulent, cylindrical leaves to wide, strap-like foliage. Hard-leaved species often have thick cuticles for arid survival, while soft-leaved species are wider and more tropical.
Cultivation notes
These plants thrive on warmth and bright light but tolerate shade. They are susceptible to rot from over-watering and must be potted in well-drained soil. They require occasional re-potting or splitting at the root as they can grow very large. Propagation is best done by rhizome division to retain variegation, as leaf cuttings may revert to a non-variegated form.
History & etymology
The genus name *Sansevieria* honors Italian scientist Raimondo di Sangro, Prince of San Severo. It was originally named *Sanseverinia* by Vincenzo Petagna in 1787 to honor his patron Pietro Antonio Sanseverino, Count of Chiaromonte. Carl Peter Thunberg used the name *Sansevieria* in 1794.
Habitat
- Altitude
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- Altitude Class
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Cultivation
- Difficulty
- intermediate
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